Everglades National Park

Everglades National Park is known for its stunning displays of American wildlife. It is located at the southern tip of Florida and it is the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States. More than 40 species of animals live in the park, many of which are endangered. Everglades National Park is a wilderness area where the American alligator can roam at its own free will in the freshwater lakes, rivers, and swamps and is often seen walking the park grounds. Besides alligators, you may see some American crocodiles, deer apple snails, and muskrats, all of which use the park’s habitat for their survival.

Animals in the Everglades National Park

Credit: wikipedia

The Florida panther has been listed as endangered for more than 40 years, many of the few remaining Florida panther, live in or near the park. West Indian manatees, another endangered animal, can be spotted in groups resting just below the water's surface. Also be careful especially when on a boat, not to hurt these special creatures. Other endangered species can be Credit: http://boylanenv.com/Bec-Wildlife%20Photos.htmfound in the park, these include the Atlantic ridley, hawksbill, and leatherback turtles. There are also more than 366 species of birds are found in the Everglades, look out for the wood stork, the only species of stork found in North America, and the federally endangered red-cockaded woodpecker. Other animals you may be able to encounter are the Red fox, black bear, bobcat, river otter, and Everglades mink.

Although not native to the park, pythons, boa constrictors, parakeets, and parrots have been spotted. And white-tailed deer are often seen wading through the sawgrass prairies, along with the wild hogs, which can be found roaming freely.

Things to do in Everglades National Park

You should take the opportunity to try the park’s many miles of walking trails and canoeing and kayaking routes these provide plenty of opportunity for wildlife viewing and adventure. You can also go camping at the Everglade’s 47 campsites range from chickees (elevated wooden platforms rising from out of the surface of the water) to ground sites situated along the interior bays to beach sites along the coast.

Where is Everglades National Park?

Everglades National Park Homestead, in south Florida. The park can be accessed from these various entrance gates: the main park entrance, Gulf Coast entrance, and Shark Valley.

Florida Everglades National Park Map:

Hours of Operation:

Everglades National Park is open all year-round, 24/7.

Main park and Gulf Coast entrances are open 24/7.

Shark Valley entrance is open daily, 8:30 AM to 6 PM

Everglades National Park Address:

Expenses:

The entrance fee for a private vehicle is US$10, pedestrian/cyclist are charged US$5, children (16 years or younger) are free. You can purchase an annual pass for US$425. Camping (per night) costs US$l6.

Everglades National Park Boat Tours

Boat rentals and tours are also available at Everglades National Park. Make sure you book one for an amazing experience.

Best Times to Visit:

It is best to visit Everglades National Park during the dry season (December to April), most facilities are open and a full range of tours and programs are available during this time. Summer, expect during rains and hurricanes is another great time to visit the park, weather conditions can change dramatically and quickly.

More Holiday Tips:

Biting insects are abundant especially during summer months. If you plan to go camping during summer, come prepared with all the necessities.